Although it can stand alone, in order to fully appreciate the stories in this book, you really should read the previous books in the Shonak Series.
The Sho.
Most of that time, we knew nothing about them, but they knew everything about us.
They are a very different race of people on an alternate version of our planet who have a very complex relationship with us and have had for many thousands of years.
These earlier books inform the reader about the Shonakians and their relationship with Earth.
Although it can stand alone, in order to fully appreciate the stories in this book, you really should read the previous books in the Shonak Series